Collections Specialist

Ernest•Commerce, CA

3d•$30 - $31•Onsite

About The Position

Ernest is seeking a Collections Specialist to join their Credit Department. This role involves managing past due accounts for B2B clients, ensuring timely payments, and maintaining strong client relationships. The specialist will play a key role in protecting profitability by making informed credit decisions and proactively addressing aging reports. The position reports directly to the Corporate Credit Manager and collaborates with the Corporate Director of Credit and other teams to ensure a seamless client experience. Ernest emphasizes a culture of connection, care, and growth, empowering employees to be their best selves in a supportive and fun work environment. The company has a long history, founded in 1946, and is committed to customized service and finding the best solutions for their clients.

Requirements

Minimum 2 years’ experience in high-volume corporate collections (B2B)
Detail-oriented and results-driven with strong organizational skills
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Word
Ability to interpret and apply company policies and procedures with sound judgment
Skilled at managing multiple priorities in a dynamic environment

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of Accounts Receivable and credit processes preferred
Familiarity with SAP or similar ERP system is a plus

Responsibilities

Make proactive, professional outbound collection calls to clients while strengthening and maintaining positive relationships (minimum one call per account)
Monitor and release credit hold orders as needed; keep collections and credit line status up to date to avoid disruptions
Obtain payment instructions for electronic funds transfers
Enter invoice information into customer portals/websites as required
Flag and escalate problem accounts to the Manager or Director of Corporate Credit
Review and process new credit applications, including trade references and credit reports (D&B, Business Experian), within a 48-hour turnaround
Partner with Client Relationship Managers and Director of Client Relations as needed to facilitate collections
Reconcile short payments and customer disputes
Send invoices and proof of deliveries upon customer request
Digitize and store credit documents using Docuware for paperless record-keeping
Balance sales needs and customer expectations with company policies to protect profitability and minimize risk
Reassess credit limits and terms for existing clients as needed
Deliver responsive, high-quality service to customers, sales teams, and internal branches
Identify accounts for legal escalation or write-off; coordinate with collection agencies after internal efforts have been exhausted
Negotiate payment plans for delinquent accounts with Director support as needed
Provide weekly aging report updates to the Director and Supervisor of Corporate Credit
Stay motivated and productive under tight deadlines, working independently with minimal oversight
Support the Credit Department with additional tasks as needed
Collaborate with Sales, Customer Service, and internal departments to drive revenue, accelerate cash flow, and mitigate credit risk
Receive direction from the Director and Supervisor of Corporate Credit, while offering ideas and insights that contribute to department success